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Frank Roche (centre) candidate in the Cork County Council election poses for a photo with Dan and Margaret Jones Ballyhooly at the St Patrick’s Day Parade in Fermoy. Photo: Ned Duggan

Castletownroche agricultural contractor, Frank Roche is to contest the forthcoming local eletions. He will attempt to win a seat in the Fermoy Municipal Area and despite having no party backing, he's been encouraged by the reaction of family, friends and supporters.
"After giving it a lot of consideration, I've decided to run as an independent candidate. I have strong views on a lot of issues and I feel I could represent those who aren't being listened to at the moment," he told The Avondhu this week.
His contact with rural Ireland has given him an insight into people's lives and he's concerned that very little is being done for those outside big cities and towns.
"Villages are under huge pressure and it's extremely difficult for small businesses to keep going. No one seems to be representing the small business man," he says.

"Rural isolation is another issue I want to tackle, it's a huge problem. You have people out there who don't see anyone from one end of the week to the other," says Frank.
He believes his contacts throughout east and north Cork will be a major advantage in the weeks and months ahead.
"I've built up a lot contacts throughout the region and would be well known especially in farming circles. In my line of business, I'm seeing at first hand the problems individuals, especially small businesses, are having with form-filling and red tape".
According to Frank, he'll start canvassing very shortly and he's looking forward to bringing his positive message to the electorate.

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